NFL

Favre has the “itch” to play again-should he scratch it?

The glorious Hall of Fame class of 2012 might have lost one of its cornerstone members. Hold off the ceremony at Lambeau Field. Keep the number 4 off the wall and Aaron Rodgers on the bench. Why? Because Brett Favre wants to play.

On Wednesday afternoon, it was reported that the NFL’s leader in career touchdown passes has an “itch” to play again. In fact, Favre has contacted his former coach Mike McCarty multiple times about his desire to play again. Even his family wants him to play, according to longtime ESPN football analyst Chris Mortensen.

“Brett retired for the right reasons, even though I know his family is tugging on him [to play],” said Mortensen’s source.

Favre’s agent Bus Cook is staying mum on the situation and said, “As far as I know, right now, Brett Favre is retired and until he tells me something different, that’s what it is.”

Of course this story is in the embryonic stages, but I’m sure no one is surprised. Brett Favre is a guy who is very passionate for the game of football. Of course, fans would love to see him back, but do the Packers?

It was sort of a blessing in disguise that he retired this year. Aaron Rodgers has been waiting for his shot for a while now, and so were the Packers. Also, by drafting Brian Brohm out of Louisville, it seemed apparent they were ready to forget number 4.

Favre’s contract is tied with the Packers on the reserved retired list, which means if he were to come back, it would be in Green Bay. However, according to Mortensen, he would have to write a letter to ask for his release.

While seeing Favre play at a high level one more time would be great for the game, it just wouldn’t be right. Why is he putting all this scrutiny on Rodgers and the Packers? This seems like a very selfish act by the old gunslinger.

Granted, Rodgers could be a complete flop, but what’s to say Favre’s return to be the same? Remember, Favre was on the decline until his rejuvenation last season. Who knows? Maybe 2007 was a mirage. What if the decline continues? That doesn’t seem fair for Green Bay or Rodgers.

What if the Packers decide not to bring back Favre and release him into free agency? It would be hard to picture him in anything but the green and gold. Also, who would really want him?

The Bears? Like it or not, they are sold on having Rex Grossman or Kyle Orton behind center. The Falcons? Well, if you’re paying Matt Ryan that much money to sit like Aaron Rodgers has been the past 3 seasons, forget about it. The Vikings? It makes sense, but Brad Childress is in love with Tarvaris Jackson. The Chiefs? They seem sold on Brodie Croyle, but this would be the only place that might even think about signing him.

Brett, you are a legend. All of us who watched you play the last 17 seasons have a book full of memories. Heck, you even won a Super Bowl and played in the big game twice. Most quarterbacks would sell their soul for a chance to do that.

So, please, for your sake, quit toying with us. Quit waffling, pondering, and flip-flopping. Do what John Elway and Dan Marino have done. Hold back your desires, walk away, and stay retired. Keep your legacy intact. Make last season one where you road off into the sunset.

But, if you REALLY do want to come back and the Packers say “no,” I think you would look good in navy blue and orange. Just a suggestion.

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